Nose surgery, also known as rhinoplasty, is a popular cosmetic procedure designed for people who wish to add balance and symmetry to their facial features.
The nose is often considered the focal point of the face, so even a slight adjustment can make a profound impact on an individual’s appearance and self-confidence. Rhinoplasty may be elected for cosmetic or reconstructive purposes.
When to Consider Nose Surgery
Ideal candidates are healthy and possess realistic expectations. Additionally, the best candidates should be at least 16 and have a fully developed nose. This procedure may:
- Balance nose size relative to the face
- Remove bumps in nasal bridge
- Slim nasal contours
- Adjust nasal drooping
- Decrease tip size
- Straighten nose
- Improve symmetry
- Decrease nostril size
Factors that may affect the natural healing process include smoking, certain medical conditions and some medications. Your surgeon will be able to determine if rhinoplasty is right for you.
FAQ
What happens during nose surgery?
General or local anesthesia may be administered prior to your procedure. The surgical techniques used during rhinoplasty will vary depending on your cosmetic goals. Often incisions are made inside the nose to minimize visible incision lines. Your surgeon will then remove or reshape underlying tissue and bone from the inside of the nose. Incisions will be closed with fine sutures to reduce the appearance of scarring.
How long is recovery following rhinoplasty?
Following surgery, surgical dressings and a nasal splint may be placed to promote proper healing and protect the nose from impact. Splints or bandages may also be necessary within the nostrils. Significant bruising and swelling may occur during the first few days following the procedure, but should fade over the course of several weeks.
Most discoloration is typically gone within a week and makeup may be used a few days after surgery. All stitches should be ready for removal within a week. Normal activities may be resumed in about three weeks, but the nose should be protected from prolonged sun exposure for several months.
Is there scarring from rhinoplasty?
Incisions are typically placed inside of the nose, so scarring should be minimal or non-existent. Incisions made on the outside of the nose are often hidden in the natural lines around the nose, and will be closed with fine sutures to reduce the appearance of scarring. The incision lines should begin to fade over the course of six months.
How will I feel after the procedure?
There may be some discomfort in the days following your rhinoplasty procedure. This discomfort may be managed with prescription or over-the-counter pain medication for the first few days, if necessary.
Are there any possible complications?
Rhinoplasty carries a minimal risk of complication which may include asymmetry and other undesirable cosmetic outcomes. In some cases revisionary surgery may be necessary. As with all surgical procedures, rhinoplasty has a low risk of bleeding, poor wound healing and infection. All of these risks will be discussed in depth during the consultation process.
Learn More About Rhinoplasty
To learn more about rhinoplasty, or to schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Mosiello, contact our office at 813-631-1500. Our Tampa Palms cosmetic surgery office is conveniently located in New Tampa near Wesley Chapel. Dr. Gerard Mosiello is a board-certified plastic surgeon serving Tampa Palms, New Tampa, Wesley Chapel, and the entire Tampa Bay area. He has expertise in a wide range of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, including breast augmentation and enhancement, breast lift surgery, breast reconstruction, facial rejuvenation, and body contouring.
